World's Best Hotels

201406-ss-worlds-best-inn-at-palmetto-bluff

Prepare for some serious wanderlust: introducing the top 50 hotels worldwide, according to T+L readers.

You’re lounging in an airy villa—with rain showers and a plunge pool fed by natural hot springs—in the Costa Rican rainforest. A personal host tends to your every need, whether arranging a wildlife-spotting hike or a private yoga lesson in the open-air studio. It’s just another unforgettable day at Nayara Springs, one of the top-rated hotels.

For 19 years and counting, we’ve asked T+L readers to vote for their favorite hotels and resorts, evaluating them in categories like value, food, service, rooms, and location. More than just a list of the best properties, the World’s Best Awards results also highlight bigger travel trends—including where you, as a community, are going.

A significant number of this year’s winners are close to home, with the share of U.S. properties growing by more than 19 percent over last year. Three of the top 10 hotels overall are in the U.S.—in 2013, there were none. Triple Creek Ranch, in Darby, MT, holds the No. 1 spot; Ocean House, in Watch Hill, RI, is No. 5, followed by the Langham Chicago at No. 6.

Chicago has a prominent place among large urban hotels (100 rooms or more) in the U.S., with four of the top 10, while Charleston, SC, dominates the category of urban hotels with fewer than 100 rooms.

The total number of Caribbean properties also doubled over last year, yet readers are still finding time to visit far-flung places. A third of the top 50 hotels are in Australia, Africa, and Asia. Notably, Southern Ocean Lodge, on Australia’s Kangaroo Island, comes in at No. 4 overall. South Africa and Udaipur, India, each have two top-10 properties, including, respectively, Singita Sabi Sand (up to No. 7 from last year’s No. 10 spot) and Taj Lake Palace (No. 10, up from No. 29).

Of course, you’ll also find plenty of world-class options in European destinations—Paris, Budapest, Florence, you name it—plus dream-worthy resorts in Mexico and Hawaii.

We dare you to read about the World’s Best Hotel winners and not immediately start planning your next getaway.

—Brooke Porter Katz

2 of 51Courtesy of Triple Creek Ranch

No. 1 Triple Creek Ranch, Darby, MT

Score: 97.44

A luxurious mountain retreat, Triple Creek Ranch knows how to pamper its guests (adults only). Itineraries are tailored to fit your preference of activities, among them, scenic hikes, wildlife spotting, wine tastings, cattle drives, and helicopter tours above Glacier or Yellowstone National Parks. When you’re ready to come indoors, upscale log cabins set a romantic mood with wood-burning fireplaces, hot tubs, and locally woven woolens. And staffers are on hand to welcome you with fresh-baked cookies—or recommend a bottle from the 2,000-strong wine cellar. Don’t be surprised if you feel one stay wasn’t enough; approximately half of all visitors are repeat guests.

Advertisement

3 of 51Courtesy of Nayara Hotel

No. 2 Nayara Springs, La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Score: 97.00

At Nayara Springs, each of the 16 villas comes with its own plunge pool, drawing on mineral-rich spring waters from Arenal Volcano next door. Venetian mirrors, hand-loomed rugs, and hammocks add to the easy-breezy vibe at this secluded jungle retreat, complete with a spa and yoga or Pilates offered daily. Get to know your neighbors—namely howler monkeys and blue morpho butterflies—on a tour with one of the local guides. It’s just one of the experiences that your personal host can coordinate.

4 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 3 Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest

Score: 96.91

Once an apartment complex during Hungarian Communist rule, this 179-room hotel is now one of the Four Seasons’ grandest properties. The luxury brand gave new life to the 1906 Art Nouveau structure with a $125 million restoration, and ever since, the hotel lobby has wowed visitors with its stained-glass windows, mosaic tiles, and custom-made crystal chandelier. Opt for a Danube-facing room, and plan your visit during summer to check out the nearby Festival of Folk Arts at Buda Castle.

5 of 51Courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

No. 4 Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia

Score: 96.27

At Southern Ocean Lodge, each of the 21 suites is outfitted with limestone floors, works by local artists, and an outdoor terrace. Don’t look for an AC switch—it’s unnecessary here: the lodge was built to take advantage of natural weather patterns on Kangaroo Island. Book the glass-walled Osprey Pavilion suite for a private plunge pool and hand-carved granite bath, or try your luck fishing Hanson Bay. Chef Tim Bourke will incorporate your catch into a dish along with local produce.

6 of 51Courtesy of Ocean House

No. 5 Ocean House, Watch Hill, RI

Score: 96.20

A Victorian oceanfront hotel renovated to the tune of $146 million, this 1868 property is as grand as ever. Croquet lawns nod to old-world glamour, while 49 light-filled guest rooms and 22 private villas feature modern bathrooms and custom-made furnishings. Consider visiting in the off season—moody skies, long walks on the private beach, and cozy treatments at the hotel spa make for a romantic stay. We recommend requesting the Grand Deluxe Room 301 for its ocean views, freestanding tub, and blue-tiled fireplace.

Advertisement

7 of 51Courtesy of The Langham, Chicago

No. 6 The Langham, Chicago

Score: 96.00

Located in the landmark Mies van der Rohe IBM building, The Langham, Chicago offers guests expansive views of the Chicago River and city skyline from floor-to-ceiling windows. Opened in July 2013, it’s already a local favorite thanks to detail-oriented service—everyone from the receptionist to the porter gets to know guests by name. And don’t forget to pack your bathing suit: the pool at the Chuan Spa is a welcome oasis in the Windy City.

8 of 51Courtesy of Singita

No. 7 Singita Sabi Sand, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 95.82

Singita Sabi Sand game reserve comprises two lodges with interiors by emerging African designers: Boulders, a stylish rustic property built into the landscape, and Ebony, a lodge that puts more of a vintage spin on safari. Spend an indulgent night indoors—well-stocked wine cellars and private outdoor showers come standard—or embrace your adventurous side with a mountain-bike ride through the bush or a photography-focused safari. For once-in-a-lifetime views of elephants bathing in the Sand River, book Ebony Lodge’s Suite 1.

Advertisement

9 of 51Courtesy of Londolozi Private Game Reserve

No. 8 Londolozi Game Reserve, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 95.80

Five family-run lodges on 42,000 acres of South African wilderness make up this Kruger camp known for its frequent leopard sightings. All 32 rooms and 12 spacious suites have access to the destination’s five restaurants and bars, but we recommend booking Villa No. 1 in the newly built Pioneer Camp. Set among 500-year-old ebony trees along the Sand River, it’s the perfect secluded spot to get away from it all. After you’ve had your fill of traditional game drives, visit a local village, women’s cooperative, and school on the property’s Four Pillars of Hope tour.

10 of 51Courtesy of Oberoi

No. 9 Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India

Score: 95.76

Built on the former hunting grounds of maharajas, the Oberoi Udaivilas sits gracefully on its own island near Udaipur. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport by a car and driver, guided onto a private boat, then ferried across Lake Pichola and into the gardens and fountains of the Udaivilas estate. Book one of nine Premier rooms for a private pool, terrace, and views of wildlife including peacocks, spotted deer, and wild boar. Then wander through the on-site Bada Mahal, an 18th-century former palace with delicate frescoes. Come back to the lakeside property a second time to receive traditional mirror-work coasters or jewelry boxes—departure gifts given to repeat visitors.

Advertisement

11 of 51Courtesy of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces

No. 10 Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, India

Score: 95.75

Rising from a rock foundation on its own island in Lake Pichola, this 263-year-old white marble palace offers its guests a water view from every one of its 66 rooms and 17 suites. Décor is nothing less than opulent, with classic interiors enhanced by colorful frescoes, glistening mosaics, and rich silks. For a day trip to the Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary or into the city of Udaipur, hire one of the hotel’s vintage cars and take advantage of the property’s personal butler program.

12 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 11 Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

Score: 95.67

At the Four Seasons Hong Kong, rooms start at around 500 square feet and blend modern décor with Asian-infused details like lacquered-wood tables and silk cushions and throws. Walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads and decadent spa treatments like a ginger lemongrass soak will help ease any jet lag, then try one of two excellent on-site dining options. Lung King Heen serves innovative Cantonese cuisine, while chef Shinji Morihara prepares some of the city’s finest kaiseki and teppanyaki at the elegant Japanese Inagiku. Don’t miss the property’s rooftop deck, where twin swimming pools overlook Victoria Harbour.

Advertisement

13 of 51Courtesy of Sea Island Resorts

No. 12 The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club, GA

Score: 95.58

Perks of staying at this country-style golf lodge just off southeastern Georgia’s Atlantic coast include spacious rooms and access to a legendary course—complete with a roaming bagpiper in the evenings. Suites and living rooms are more than 1,000 square feet, with water or golf course views, plus 24-hour butler service. We suggest booking Nos. 2 and 3 for their enormous balconies that overlook the 18th hole. Guests in need of serious relaxation can access the 65,000-square-foot spa at the lodge’s sister property, The Cloister, for treatments like the Sea Island olive wrap and organic white tea facial.

14 of 51Courtesy of the Peninsula

No. 13 (tie) The Peninsula Bangkok

Score: 95.47

The Peninsula Bangkok’s luxurious 37-story property was designed to be a wave shape, granting every room expansive views of the Chao Phraya River and the skyline across the water. Teak floors, marble bathrooms, silk-covered furniture, and high-tech control panels outfit the Grand Deluxe rooms, which also have V-shaped windows intended to enhance the scenery. Guests love the 21,000-square-foot spa, where the attentive and highly trained staff turn pampering into an art form through treatments like chakra balancing and Thai yoga massage. Feeling peckish? Ask the concierge to map out a walking route of nearby Chinatown, lined with dumpling restaurants.

Advertisement

15 of 51Courtesy of Post Ranch Inn

No. 13 (tie) Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, CA

Score: 95.47

A collection of small buildings set on a ridge high above the Pacific, Post Ranch Inn treats guests (adults only) to breathtaking views of the Big Sur coastline. The Mountain House also features views of the Santa Lucia Mountains from the room’s bed, bath, and terrace. A favorite of foodies, the inn’s cliff-side restaurant, Sierra Mar, serves a NorCal-inspired nine-course tasting menu created using indigenous ingredients from the property’s living roof, on-site garden, and 100-acre ranch. The restaurant can also pack a picnic that you can take down the Pacific Coast Highway—a Lexus convertible is available for guests looking to experience this quintessentially Californian road trip.

16 of 51Courtesy of Capella Pedregal

No. 15 The Resort at Pedregal, Los Cabos, Mexico

Score: 95.25

A sublime ocean-side property within walking distance of Cabo San Lucas’s popular nightlife, The Resort at Pedregal has everything you want in a beachfront boutique: a large main pool; 12,000-square-foot spa, where signature treatments are based on the cycles of the moon; and an alfresco restaurant, El Farallón, with daily seafood specials. During the whale-watching season (December to March), guests can spot gray whales from the beach—or perhaps even from their own bathroom or bedroom window.

Advertisement

17 of 51Courtesy of St. Regis Hotels

No. 16 St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, Mexico

Score: 95.22

Part of the appeal of St. Regis’s relatively new Mediterranean-inspired property on the Riviera Nayarit is its small scale: with just 120 rooms, the 1,500-acre retreat feels intimate. Butlers are at the ready to confirm tee times and post-golf spa treatments, or to arrange for a whale-watching adventure or a jungle canopy tour. Amenities, including two Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses and the tennis center, are tucked out of sight—leaving only the view of the deep-blue Pacific and nearby Marieta Islands.

18 of 51Courtesy of Cavas Wine Lodge

No. 17 Cavas Wine Lodge, Mendoza, Argentina

Score: 95.20

Cavas Wine Lodge’s contemporary casitas are a striking contrast to the surrounding area; the property is in the middle of a 55-acre working vineyard accessible only by a dirt road. Walls in the hotel are rounded, and provocative art fills the public spaces. Dine alfresco at the restaurant, whose menu—which has included lamb cooked for 24 hours and goat-cheese-and-grilled-vegetable ravioli—changes every three months. Pair your dinner with one of 250 Argentinean wines from the expansive cellar. For extra space and unrivaled Andes views, book one of the new 2,200-square-foot Vineyard Villas. The two-, three-, and four-night specials come with a complimentary massage; we suggest extending your treatment with a crushed-Malbec scrub, a Bonarda-enriched bubble bath—or both.

Advertisement

19 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 18 Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Score: 95.15

It’s hard to believe that this 65-room retreat was a prison in its former life. Set in the heart of Sultanahmet—a few minutes’ walk from Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace—the property’s century-old Neoclassical building and manicured garden courtyard have hosted hotel guests since 1996. Original architectural detailing, including vaulted ceilings and arched windows, blends seamlessly with the timeless style expected from a Four Seasons. And though there’s no swimming pool, the roof terrace, with views across the Sea of Marmara, is lovely in the summertime.

20 of 51Courtesy of Singita

No. 19 Singita, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Score: 95.11

Two lavish lodges (Lebombo and Sweni) with treetop suites and riverside rooms make up this Singita property. The glass-walled Lebombo Lodge overlooks the plains and the Lebombo Mountain Range, while the Sweni Lodge is nestled among trees along the Sweni River. Request a guided walk through the hills along the Mozambique border for a chance to see zebras, giraffes, and impalas, or get the kids involved with a specially designed safari. Want to feel even more in touch with nature? Staff will set up an outdoor bed complete with turndown service—just one example of the tailor-made amenities available.

Advertisement

21 of 51Roby La Porte

No. 20 Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA

Score: 95.00

Just a mile south of historic Mendocino, the 10-room Brewery Gulch Inn has all the trappings of a fine hotel. Each bedroom is named for one of the region’s birds or trees and comes with a fireplace, fresh flowers, Craftsman-style furniture, and a fantastic view of Smuggler’s Cove. The redwood-shingled, three-story structure was built from 150-year-old timber eco-salvaged from the bottom of Mendocino’s Big River—a project that took 19 years. For outdoor adventures, have the concierge book a kayak tour of sea caves—or simply go hug a redwood.

22 of 51Courtesy of Stein Erikson

No. 21 Stein Eriksen Lodge, Deer Valley, UT

Score: 94.97

Stein Eriksen Lodge is the oldest luxury resort in the area, and it still sets the standard for excellence. Ski magazine readers have consistently voted it the best ski resort in America, and it’s easy to see why. The location is unbeatable: the Norwegian-style chalet is planted halfway up a peak at Deer Valley ski resort. Valets unload your skis from your car and keep them in a ski locker; free guides will show you around the mountain. After skiing, warm up with Stein’s Kahlua cappuccino in the decadent Troll Hallen Lounge, or sip mulled wine by the fire in a lobby decorated with Norwegian sleds, skis, ice skates, dolls, and elves. If you’re interested in heartier fare, make a dinner reservation at least three days in advance for Muscovy duck breast at the hotel's Glitretind restaurant.

Advertisement

23 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 22 Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, HI, the Big Island

Score: 94.96

All 243 rooms at the Four Seasons’ gorgeous, isolated resort are in low-rise bungalows with ocean views. The grounds border the dramatic volcanic rock coast, with seawater and freshwater swimming pools; an open-air spa teems with tropical vegetation; and yoga, personal training, and fitness classes are offered daily. For families, there’s a tricked-out teen lounge and baby-proofed rooms for guests with infants. The gorgeous private 7,100-square-foot oceanfront golf course is carved into the underlying black lava, but if golf isn’t your specialty, check out the resort’s Hualalai Cultural Center for lessons in Hawaiian history, lei making, and the art of hula.

24 of 51Courtesy of Nayara Hotel

No. 23 Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens, La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Score: 94.89

In the shadow of the (now dormant) Arenal Volcano, Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens blends in effortlessly with its tropical surroundings. Travelers flock to this lush region for wildlife spotting, whitewater rafting, and kayaking. Balconies with Jacuzzis, outdoor showers, and views of the volcano encourage lingering in the resort’s wooden casitas, and the hotel’s wine bar serves some of Latin America’s best vintages by the glass, but don’t miss the daily guided walking tours across the lava field on Arenal’s western side.

Advertisement

25 of 51Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental

No. 24 Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

Score: 94.83

At this 392-room property, interior designer Adam Tihany evokes the feel of contemporary Hong Kong. The hotel’s Japanese black pines are pruned according to bonsai traditions, and when guests step off the elevator at the 23rd-floor lobby, they encounter what he calls a “gold bullion wall,” a shimmering blast of gilded geometry. The hotel achieved LEED Gold certification, acknowledgment of the complex’s energy- and resource-conserving features. Its spa offers 17 treatment rooms; the sleek pool deck has fabulous views over CityCenter; and the property’s five restaurants and bars include Twist by Pierre Gagnaire, the Michelin-starred chef’s first U.S. venture.

26 of 51Courtesy of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

No. 25 Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Score: 94.80

From the Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired lobby, with its two-story waterfall, to retro-styled lancha fishing boats, the Rosewood Mayakoba resort provides guests with an experience they are unlikely to forget. Choose from rooms overlooking the lagoon, suspended over the water, or on the beachfront—a stretch of wildly beautiful, largely unpopulated sand. All have soaking tubs and outdoor showers, some even stargazing decks. Relax at the Sense spa with treatments that utilize indigenous ingredients like aloe, agave, and chaya herb salt, or practice your short game at the championship 18-hole Greg Norman golf course. And we almost forgot to mention: private butlers cater to your every whim.

Advertisement

27 of 51Courtesy of Planters Inn

No. 26 Planters Inn, Charleston, SC

Score: 94.78

A peaceful 19th-century building in the center of town, the 1844 Planters Inn feels like a mini museum, decorated with antiques and period reproductions from Baker Furniture Company’s Historic Charleston Collection. All 64 rooms have crown moldings and four-poster beds, but for extra luxury, we recommend the Plantation Kings, which are roomy and have views of the Meeting and Market streets historic district. The on-site Peninsula Grill is a Lowcountry institution and one of the best restaurants in town. Be sure to dine alfresco in the garden courtyard, or rent a bike and watch the sunset over the waterfront.

28 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 27 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Thailand

Score: 94.71

Twenty minutes outside Chiang Mai proper, the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai offers visitors a tranquil refuge from city life, with 12 poolside villas, and pavilions that look onto rice paddies. Unwind in one of the spa’s elegant treatment suites with private steam rooms and outdoor soaking tubs, or try your hand at preparing noodle soup with chicken or dry spiced curry with pork at the resort’s cooking school.

Advertisement

29 of 51Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel & Resort

No. 28 (tie) Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai, Thailand

Score: 94.67

This miniature Thai kingdom features 123 Lanna-inspired suites and amazing two-story villas made from reclaimed northern Thai rice barns on 60 acres. A 33,000-square-foot spa and wellness center offers herbal treatments, yoga regimens, and an ayurvedic therapy program that can last from three therapeutic hours to 21 days. Nine dining options serve cuisines from across the globe, from French at Farang Ses to Cantonese at Fujian. Or opt for a cooking class and learn to make traditional northern Thai dishes. Classic dance lessons are another example of the cultural experiences available at Dhara Dhevi.

30 of 51Courtesy of Edward Duarte

No. 28 (tie) Farmhouse Inn, Forestville, CA

Score: 94.67

Driving north from San Francisco for about 1.5 hours builds the anticipation of arriving at Farmhouse Inn, set amid hundreds of wineries. Six concierges are happy to share the best of wine country, while three bellmen are ready to answer requests—quite a staff for the inn’s 18 rooms. (An $8 million renovation is in progress.) Seasonal flowers add B&B personality, while private bathrooms with jetted tubs and saunas or steam showers make this country inn feel like a five-star resort. The valley-nestled inn also features a lavish spa with treatments utilizing organic ingredients grown by the on-site gardener. Those ingredients are also used at its Michelin-starred farm-to-table restaurant. If you’re staying on a Thursday evening, don’t miss Wine Hour, when a local vintner pours its varietals with small-bite pairings.

Advertisement

31 of 51Courtesy of Oberoi

No. 28 (tie) Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur, India

Score: 94.67

Channel your inner maharaja at this majestic but modern 32-acre resort in Jaipur. Standard rooms feature four-poster beds and sunken marble baths, while air-conditioned royal tents are outfitted with Burmese teakwood floors and claw-footed tubs. Come evening, head to the Indian specialty restaurant Raj Mahal for traditional tandoori skewers featuring herbs and vegetables from the hotel’s on-site garden. At the spa, treatments highlight indigenous rituals and specialty baths use rose water, milk, and marigolds. Before you leave, consider paying a visit to the nearby outpost of Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity, supported by the hotel.

32 of 51Courtesy of Jade Mountain

No. 31 Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Score: 94.56

Located at the highest point of the island, Jade Mountain celebrates the natural beauty of the Caribbean Sea and of St. Lucia’s iconic peaks, the Pitons. Inside, each of the Nick Troubetzkoy–designed sanctuaries (don’t call them rooms) features 15-foot ceilings and only three walls, offering open-air, panoramic views of the landscape. Rinse off in the rain shower, take a dip in the private infinity pools, or just take time to unplug. Telephones, televisions, and radios are absent from the suites for uninterrupted island tranquility.

Advertisement

33 of 51Courtesy of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces

No. 32 Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, India

Score: 94.52

Tipping the indulgence scale, Taj Hotels’ Rambagh Palace sets up guests in spa suite tents modeled after a 16th-century Moghul encampment. Not unlike the traditional velvet and embroidered-silk shelters of India’s royalty, these billowing pavilions contain handwoven carpets, royal pennants, and love swings made from salvaged shesham wood. Book a palace in the Garden Wing for a tranquil view, and opt for a private guided tour of the City Palace and surrounding forts for a small fee.

34 of 51Courtesy of The Carlyle

No. 33 (tie) The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, New York City

Score: 94.48

There’s a reason The Carlyle is a classic. At Manhattan’s most aristocratic hotel, it seems, the Gilded Age never ended. Diplomats, presidents, blue bloods, and Hollywood actresses continue to duck in and out of the famous side entrance. Each of the tasteful rooms is unique, but many feature Louis XVI–style furnishings and black marble bathrooms courtesy of decorator Alexandra Champalimaud. For an intimate night out, don’t miss cocktails at Bemelmans (with murals by the author of the Madeline children’s books) and cabaret at Café Carlyle.

Advertisement

35 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 33 (tie) Four Seasons Hotel Milano, Milan

Score: 94.48

Formerly a convent, this 15th-century structure located on the exclusive Via Gesù offers its guests a lovely courtyard and access to the city’s best shopping. Come afternoon, sip coffee in the hotel’s Il Foyer lounge, where the walls are frescoed with 15th-century depictions of Milanese nobility.

36 of 51Courtesy of One&Only

No. 35 One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico

Score: 94.44

Tucked away on the tip of Mexico’s Baja peninsula, One&Only Palmilla is a favorite of celebrities and the stealth-wealth set. There’s the emphasis on individual service that makes this big resort feel like a boutique hotel (guests are called by name, for example), and pets are welcome, with poolside doggie cabanas and a special menu for Fido. For the resort’s human guests, chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten heads up Market restaurant, which turns out tuna “ribbons” with avocado and radish-and-ginger marinade nightly. The airy rooms have red tile roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Sea of Cortés, but large groups should splurge for a night in the Villa Cortez, the hotel’s only stand-alone suite, with four bedrooms, a private gym and spa, a pool, a stocked kitchen, and a dedicated staff of 12.

Advertisement

37 of 51Courtesy of Oberoi

No. 36 Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, India

Score: 94.40

The Taj Mahal is just a quarter of a mile away from the Oberoi Amarvilas, making it the focal point of this luxury resort. The views of the monument from the stand-alone tubs directly in front of the window in the hotel’s top-floor suites are spectacular. It’ll be hard to pry your eyes away from the landmark to even notice the rest of the elegant and roomy marble-and-granite bathrooms with baskets of ayurvedic toiletries. Combining Moghul and Moorish architecture, the property features terraced lawns, intricate entryways, fountained courtyards, and reflecting pools, while interiors have French doors, sandstone floors, and four-poster beds.

38 of 51Courtesy of the Peninsula

No. 37 The Peninsula Hong Kong

Score: 94.34

A fleet of 14 Rolls-Royce limousines is the first sign of The Peninsula Hong Kong’s glamour factor. Then there’s the lobby, where bellboys don old-school uniforms including pillbox hats, and a string quartet plays classical music. Tucked-away elevators whisk guests to the 297 rooms and suites, including renovated Tower rooms gleaming with burl-wood cabinetry, vintage-inspired hardware, and cream-toned upholstery. Modern electronic panels control the rooms’ lighting, window treatments, and music and video selection, but we suggest keeping the shades up—you won’t want to miss the heart-stopping views of Victoria Harbour and the towering buildings of Hong Kong Island. Be sure to ask for one on a higher floor (they extend from the 17th to the 27th floors), where the vistas only improve.

Advertisement

39 of 51Courtesy of Four Seasons

No. 38 (tie) Four Seasons Hotel México, D.F., Mexico City

Score: 94.29

Only the staff of a world-class hotel like the Four Seasons could make the frenzied capital of Mexico feel relaxing. Features like Mexican gardens (with tropical-fruit trees, orchids, and caged canaries) and courtyard dining create an oasis of calm amid the bustle of urban life. The 240 spacious guest rooms also promote tranquility with a neutral palette of taupes and creams, deep soaking tubs, and views of elegant Paseo de la Reforma or the quiet courtyard. The hotel also has a fleet of bikes available for guests. Take one for a spin on Sunday mornings, when Paseo de la Reforma is closed to traffic.

At Bush Lodge, the flagship of Sabi Sabi’s collection in Kruger National Park, thatched suites are decorated in earthy color schemes and courtyards feature sculptures created from uprooted trees and salvaged wood. Twice-daily game drives, firelight dinners, and spa treatments keep parents occupied, while kids can enroll in the EleFun Centre, a program offering conservation activities and outdoor fun.

Advertisement

41 of 51Courtesy of Banyan Tree

No. 40 Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Score: 94.25

This Mexican offshoot of the much-loved Asian brand is a perennial favorite of both families and couples due to the privacy of its 107 stand-alone villas. Each is a sanctuary, complete with soaring skylights, a walled garden, a pool, and a sun terrace, while spa appointments and private beach club access encourage guests to walk among the location’s gardens and dunes. After booking a room, reserve tee time on the nearby golf course; it’s home to Mexico’s first PGA Tour event.

42 of 51Courtesy of Sea Island Resorts

No. 41 The Cloister at Sea Island, GA

Score: 94.10

Long a favorite of the East Coast establishment, this historic 1928 Mediterranean-style mansion is on 1,000 acres of a barrier island south of Savannah. Beach Club Suites come with kitchens, fireplaces, balconies, and easy access to pools, an ice cream parlor, a movie theater, and a children’s center. Hop on the Cloister Belle, a restored antique yacht, for a 90-minute tour of the salt marsh to see oyster beds and live shrimp or snorkel along the south Georgian coast.

Advertisement

43 of 51Courtesy of The Peninsula

No. 42 The Peninsula Shanghai

Score: 94.09

On a stretch of the historic Bund waterfront, The Peninsula Shanghai’s granite-clad building is a Modernist reflection of its Art Deco–era neighbors, the Shanghai Club and Sassoon House. Interiors feature gleaming brass and mahogany elevators and 235 guest rooms that combine embossed glass lamps and black lacquer screens with the 21st-century amenities that modern travelers will appreciate. All come with VoIP phones, portable master control panels, and spa tubs with music and light settings, but your most valuable asset here is Simon Huang, the savvy chief concierge.

44 of 51Annie Schlechter

No. 43 Castello di Casole—A Timbers Resort, Casole d’Elsa, Italy

Score: 94.07

A cypress-lined road leads to the rolling 4,200-acre Tuscan estate, whose structure dates back to the 10th century. Film director Luchino Visconti once lived in this peaceful castle—now a luxurious hotel that draws visitors in search of quiet. The resort’s 41 rustic suites incorporate oil paintings and reclaimed terracotta, while Essere Spa, originally the estate’s wine cellar, features seven treatment rooms and massages incorporating orange and basil essential oils. Available for rent on a weekly basis, the Tuscan Farmhouses are set among the vineyards and built of stones, bricks, and terracotta found on the estate.

Advertisement

45 of 51Courtesy of Four Seasons

No. 44 Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Florence

Score: 94.00

Built into the 15th-century Palazzo Scala della Gherardesca and a 16th-century former convent, Florence’s Four Seasons hotel is the city’s first true resort. In addition to the opulent décor and 15th-century frescoed halls, perks include a spa, an outdoor pool, and an 11-acre private park. Room amenities go beyond the usual satellite TV to include DVD players, iPod docking stations, twice-daily maid service, and Wi-Fi. Service, under manager Patrizio Cipollini, is top notch. The staff is happy to arrange wine tastings in the Chianti region, about 40 minutes away, or family-oriented visits to the Uffizi, Pitti Palace, or the nearby Pinocchio Park.

46 of 51Courtesy of Hôtel Le Bristol, Paris

No. 45 Le Bristol Paris

Score: 93.93

A meticulous $130 million renovation retained the 19th-century paintings and gilded ceilings dating back to 1925 but infused Le Bristol Paris with a lighter, welcoming sensibility. Each of the renovated rooms in the Avenue Matignon wing features Eiffel Tower views, and new floor-to-ceiling windows give an airy feel to the La Prairie spa. The Michelin three-starred Epicure restaurant has been completely redone, with romantic two-tops overlooking the leafy courtyard. And now an original wrought-iron elevator leads to the Panoramic Suite (you’ll recognize the 2,155-square-foot space from Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris).

Advertisement

47 of 51Courtesy of Inn at Palmetto Bluff

No. 46 Inn at Palmetto Bluff, a Montage Resort, Bluffton, SC

Score: 93.86

Life at South Carolina’s Inn at Palmetto Bluff seems to move at the pace of a deep-southern drawl. Set on coastal marshland, this resort encourages guests to take it easy with fireplaces and private screened-in porches. Take your pick among spa treatments, fly-fishing, and a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, or venture out on a naturalist-led alligator “hunt.” Bird-lovers also have the opportunity to paddle a complimentary kayak or canoe through the lagoon to spy more than 100 species, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and snowy egrets.

48 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 47 Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, HI

Score: 93.86

A favored hideout for Hollywood types in search of a Polynesian escape, the Four Seasons Resort Maui caters to every whim. Standard rooms—at 600 square feet—are some of the largest in Hawaii, and the resort offers a slew of activities including snorkel, scuba, and yoga classes for free, whereas most charge extra. Dine in one of three restaurants or grab a fruity drink at your choice of four bars before touring the resort’s contemporary Hawaiian art collection, or sign up for a free outrigger canoe excursion to learn Hawaiian paddling techniques—and perhaps glimpse a green sea turtle.

Advertisement

49 of 51Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

No. 48 (tie) Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Score: 93.82

Opened in 1876, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok has a rich literary history. Guests including Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene, Noël Coward, and James Michener all stayed here, soaking up views of the Chao Phraya River from floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s also a favorite spot among present-day celebrities, and with an opulent spa, nine restaurants, and personal butler service, it’s easy to see why. Request a deluxe room in the River Wing for access to a private balcony, and after hours wander into the Bamboo Bar for perfectly mixed cocktails like the Singapore Sling.

50 of 51Courtesy of The Ritz, Paris

No. 48 (tie) The Ritz Paris

Score: 93.82

Opened in 1898, The Ritz has maintained its status as a Parisian institution for more than a century. It was the world’s first hotel to have a private bath in every room, and now swan-shaped, gold-plated faucets grace the tubs. Would you expect anything less from the iconic hotel where Coco Chanel once lived? Traditional white-glove service, a Roman-style pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant only add to the lap-of-luxury experience. The hotel is currently undergoing massive renovations, but when it finally reopens in 2015, swing by the Bar Hemingway, and prepare to be entertained by legendary bartender Colin Field and tales of his romantic life.

Advertisement

51 of 51Courtsey of Four Seasons

No. 50 Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Score: 93.81

On the east bank of the Vltava River, four buildings from different architectural eras (Baroque, Neoclassical, Neo-Renaissance, Modernista-revival) make up the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Prague. Remodeled in 2012 by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, rooms in the contemporary wing feature black and white décor, while Renaissance rooms are outfitted with Czech details like crystal chandeliers. Traveling with a bibliophile? Ask the concierge to arrange access to parts of the Strahov Monastery and its library, which are not ordinarily open to the public.